When I think of true comfort food, this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is always at the top of the list. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight dinner.
This dish has everything you need: savory chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta cooked in a rich broth. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Think of it as a warm hug on a plate—you’ll keep coming back to it again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
- One-pot wonder – Less mess, less cleanup.
- Family-friendly – Balanced, nourishing, and loved by both kids and adults.
- Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to fit your taste or diet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this dish so delicious:
- Orzo pasta – Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up flavor beautifully.
- Olive oil – For sautéing and richness.
- Chicken sausage – Use your favorite variety (mild, spicy, or herb-seasoned).
- Broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen for a pop of color and crunch.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for depth of flavor.
- Chicken broth – Infuses the orzo with savory richness.
- Italian seasoning – Adds an herby, classic flavor.
- Salt & black pepper – For balance and seasoning.
- Parmesan cheese – Creamy, salty finish that ties it all together.
- Fresh parsley – A sprinkle for brightness before serving.
Optional swaps:
- Use turkey sausage, plant-based sausage, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
1. Cook the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes, until golden brown. Browning adds so much flavor, so don’t skip this step!
2. Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add Broccoli
Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until they start to soften and turn bright green.
4. Cook the Orzo
Pour in the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Simmer Until Creamy
Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Stir in Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Garnish & Serve
Spoon into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Prep ingredients ahead to make cooking even faster.
- Stir the orzo while simmering to prevent sticking.
- Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- If reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth to keep it creamy.
Variations
- Spicy – Use hot Italian chicken sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian – Swap sausage for mushrooms or a plant-based option.
- Extra cheesy – Stir in mozzarella or feta for a twist.
- Seasonal veggies – Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini.
What to Serve with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Side salad – A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Crusty bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Wine pairing – A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc balances the richness.
Storage & Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep the orzo creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, one pot, and just 30 minutes, you’ll have a nourishing meal the whole family will love.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and oh-so comforting—the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again.
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken sausage and cook 5–7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and cook 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy and combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Optional: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream before serving for extra creaminess.